What do you mean by 'loose' in the upper ankles? Side to side slop? Your ankle bones aren't locked in? Too much negative space in that area? Baking won't do anything at that level of skate.

Could you post a picture of the damage?

The Vapors are outlined on the first page.

Heel to toe feels fine. I guess "side to side slop" is a good way to describe the feel above the ankle. Even when initially tied it seems they "encircle" the ankle as opposed to tightening ONTO it, if that makes sense. After reading the breakdown on page one, I may try on some Vapors when I get a chance and use my replacement pair for public skating.